This morning, Sunday, May 17, 2026, Columbus is starting off mostly clear and mild at about 61°F at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. There is still a quick shot at a morning shower or an isolated thunderstorm before 10 a.m., but the rest of the day trends sunny with a warm afternoon on tap. Look for a high near 87°F with light southwest winds.
What To Expect Through Monday
Highs stay in the upper 80s today and climb to around 90°F on Monday, May 18, 2026. South winds will run around 6 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph, so it could feel a bit like a hair dryer outside by Monday afternoon.
There is roughly a 40% chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms this morning, although new rainfall amounts should generally stay under a tenth of an inch where storms do pop. Forecast guidance has been nudged a few degrees cooler compared with earlier runs, according to the National Weather Service.
Storm Window Tuesday Night Into Wednesday
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, still starts off mostly sunny. By later in the day, though, a cold front moves in and kicks storm chances up for the afternoon and evening. A stronger round of showers and thunderstorms is likely Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Forecasters are calling for a high chance, about 80%, of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday night, with localized rainfall between a tenth and a quarter of an inch and the potential for gusty winds. Cooler air moves in behind the front Wednesday, and highs are expected to drop into the mid‑70s as it passes.
Local Impacts And Tips
If you have outdoor plans on Monday or Tuesday, plan for heat first and storms second. Bring water, take frequent shade breaks, and be ready to move indoors if thunderstorms roll through.
The City of Columbus has opened community centers during past heat events as temporary cooling options. Check the City of Columbus for resources and heat-safety tips. Pilots and travelers should also keep an eye out for brief MVFR ceilings and reduced visibility around Tuesday night into Wednesday if thunderstorms materialize.
Quick Update
This refines the May 14 outlook with slightly lower forecast highs and a more focused timing window for the Tuesday night storm setup. For more background on the recent weather roller coaster, see our earlier forecast on weeklong weather whiplash.
